Mohs in Plano & Prosper, TX

Cancer is a frightening word, but for individuals who are diagnosed with skin cancer, there might be a remedy. Mohs surgery is a process that carefully and precisely removes skin cancer. The intention of the surgery is to remove as little of your healthy skin tissue as possible while still delivering a high success rate for skin cancer removal. The surgical technique is used to address squamous and basal cell carcinomas, melanomas, and other less common types of tumors. Skilled dermatologist Dr. Jennifer Dharamsi of Legacy Dermatology & Restoration Center in Frisco, TX will begin this procedure by slowly and carefully removing the cancerous tissue one layer at a time. After each and every layer, she will inspect the cellular makeup of the skin tissue to find out if any cancer remains.

The Mohs surgery technique is largely utilized to take care of the two most common kinds of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma, as well as a selection of other skin cancer subtypes. If you are suffering from melanoma or another form of rare skin cancer, a consultation will help determine if you are a good candidate for Mohs surgery. Along with the sort of skin cancer you have, there is also other qualifying criteria that make you a good candidate for Mohs surgery.

Mohs surgery is the best option if your cancer has a high risk of returning or if it has already returned after getting treatment. The cancer cells must also be located in sensitive places, such as the eyes, ears, mouth, or nose. Skin cancer cells that are large, aggressive, and contain borders that are hard to define are also best treated with Mohs surgery.

During this procedure, Dr. Dharamsi will typically utilize local anesthetics to numb the affected area before incisions are made for removal. The incisions can be compared to a map (similar to a clock face) and are made to correspond with the orientation of their skin that was removed. The excised layer is suspended, processed, and examined under the microscope. If additional cancer roots are observed, they are marked on the corresponding map and the process is repeated. The procedure continues until a clean layer with no remaining cancer is accomplished. The number of layers removed and the length of the procedure is dependent on the stage of the cancer and how long it has been present. The completion of the procedure will leave a wound. Healing solutions range from simple sutures to close the wound to more complex cosmetic surgery for larger wounds.

A Mohs procedure is not a simple solution, but with a proficient team and the suitable amount of anesthesia, most patients report minor discomfort. Mohs surgery is generally performed as an outpatient procedure with patients able to drive home afterward. Although the site will be heavily bandaged, it is possible to resume routine actions the next day. This rules out any strenuous exercise or heavy activities for as much as 1 – 2 weeks. If sutures were utilized, they will be removed within 6 – 14 days. Scarring will vary, depending on the procedure. The success rate of removing the cancerous cells from the site is quite high with primary basal cell carcinoma receiving up to a 99% cure rate. Primary squamous cell carcinoma has a slightly lower cure rate at around 97%.

How much does it cost?
The cost of Mohs surgery will depend on the severity of your condition, the location, facility fees, and insurance plan. It's possible that your insurance plan may cover some of the costs for Mohs surgery, but we will contact your provider to determine your coverage. Our office accepts many forms of payment and can also help you find low-interest medical financing.

What is the success rate?
The success rate of removing the cancerous tissue from the target site is very high when treating main basal cell carcinoma with thin melanomas attaining about a 99% cure rate. Primary squamous cell carcinoma has a slightly lower treatment rate of 97%.

Is it painful?
There may be mild discomfort, but we utilize general anesthesia during Mohs surgery to make our patients as comfortable as possible. If you experience any pain after your surgery, we recommend taking an over-the-counter painkiller.

Will I have a scar?
Scarring is typically a part of Mohs surgery, but Dr. Dharamsi will do her best to minimize scarring as much as possible. This will also depend on the location and the technique used, but Dr. Dharamsi may also recommend scar treatments to help diminish the appearance of scarring even further.

Will I need more than one treatment?
It's possible you may need more than one surgery, but this will vary from patient to patient and can be discussed during your private consultation. Without reviewing your condition first, it's difficult to determine the likelihood of you needing multiple treatments.

When facing a skin cancer diagnosis, it is crucial to do your research and find a skilled Mohs surgeon who is an ideal fit for your own expectations and needs. Success rates of the procedure are directly correlated to your doctor's skill and experience. To learn more about the experience, training, and personal success rates of Dr. Dharamsi, contact Legacy Dermatology & Restoration Center now and simply schedule a consultation.